‘Deportation abuse’ alarm

Private security officers removing deportees from the UK showed “a shamefully unprofessional and derogatory attitude” that did not give confidence incidents would be dealt with effectively, inspectors have said.

Nick Hardwick, the chief inspector of prisons, said some staff showed an “unacceptably unprofessional attitude” and tensions rose when force or restraint was used unnecessarily.

Some escorts spoke to detainees in patronising terms, while others used “highly offensive and sometime racist language” between themselves, he said.

He added it was a concern that inspectors needed to urge the UK Border Agency (UKBA) to ensure detainees “are treated decently at all times” with no physical or verbal abuse.

The UKBA said it expected “the highest levels of integrity” from its staff and contractors, adding that “racist and unprofessional behaviour will not be tolerated”.